Elimiate I can’t from your child’s vocabulary.

The school year is approaching quickly – and kids are starting to feel the sadness of yet another summer over and return to school. For many kids, school brings pressure from other students, parents and teachers. It is our responsibility as parents and teachers to help quell the fears of our rising students and encourage them to have an incredible year.

Make sure that students feel a sense of belonging. When students feel a part of something bigger, they are not outcast from a group and are more willing to communicate their needs as well as fears with others in authority.

Welcome students so that they know that they have a caring supporter in charge of their education.

Eliminate “I can’t from children’s vocabulary. Let them know that willingness is different from performance and that everyone can participate in activities or lessons and that even though it might be harder for some, it can be done. This ensures that children understand they aren’t a lone duck and that the help is available for them. Boost their morale and help brainstorm alternatives for solutions so that they realize that they can do anything.

As parents, tell your children how proud you are of them. Encourage them. Let last year’s grades/test scores remain last year’s grades and test scores. Let children know that as long as they are trying their hardest, that is what counts.

As parents we can participate in the classroom, school functions and help organize activities. Most schools have parent teacher organizations and this is a great avenue to involvement in the school.

Let your children be accountable for their own work/studies. Too many parents step in and do work for children because they want to be supportive of them – however, it’s best if you let them have all of the decision making and plan ahead their time so that they are participating in the work. It’s okay to offer support and help occasionally, but not to take the reigns and complete projects on your own.

Talk to your child about their day. We all struggle with sharing events from our day, especially if they’re repetitive. Make sure you have a chance to talk to your child about positive and negative events in their day. This will help open doors to communication and ensure that if there are any problems at school you’re aware of them.

Communicate regularly with teachers – especially if you already have concerns. Your child’s teacher is a great resource and can ensure your child’s safety and security is met.